Repatriation from Madeira
Madeira is located in the Atlantic Ocean and first requires a flight or sea connection from the island.
Local circumstances
Funchal and other island locations have mountainous roads and varying travel times to the airport.
Transport decision
A stable patient may be able to fly with an escort; PRM assistance does not replace a clinical escort.
Route and supervision
For a medical flight, the local ambulance, aircraft and European onward transfer are coordinated directly.
Arrival and handover
After landing, suitable transport continues to the Belgian care address.
Additional point of attention
Medication, oxygen and batteries include reserves for a long island journey and delays.
Information required
Identification, a medical summary, current medication and exact addresses remain with the care team. If the condition changes, the route is reassessed.
Mountain roads and island transfer
A patient outside Funchal may first require a winding or steep road transfer. The team checks pain, nausea, fixation and oxygen before departure towards the airport. Weather and operational flight options are reviewed again shortly before the journey. In the event of a delay, it remains clear where the patient can stay safely and who is responsible for medication. Baggage and hotel arrangements are not linked to the medical pick-up time.
From Atlantic island to Belgian hospital bed
After the island flight, a connection or further ambulance phase may follow. Each transfer has a designated person responsible. Supplies and batteries continue until the next system is demonstrably functioning; the journey is not complete upon the first landing on the European mainland.